Shri Abdul Gafur Khatri: Reviving the 400-Year-Old Legacy of Rogan Art

Compiled by ANT Team -

Rogan art, a rare textile painting technique originating over 400 years ago in Persia and later flourishing in India’s Kutch region, survives today thanks to the dedication of Abdul Gafur Khatri. Hailing from Nirona village, Kutch, his family has preserved this intricate craft for generations.

After initially pursuing work outside his village, Abdul Gafur returned in the 1980s to embrace his heritage. He learned the meticulous skills of Rogan painting from his father, Ustad Abdul Kadir Khatri, and his grandfather, Ustad Hussein Khatri, both respected artisans in their own time.

The technique involves mixing natural pigments with castor oil to create a thick, glossy paint. This heated paint is carefully applied freehand onto fabric using a metal stylus, allowing the artist to create intricate, flowing designs inspired by nature, mythology, and traditional motifs. The precision and skill required make Rogan painting a truly unique and labour intensive art form.

When Abdul Gafur took up the craft, Rogan art was nearly extinct. Through tireless effort, he revived it, showcasing his work at national museums and international festivals. His iconic “Tree of Life,” peacock, and floral designs have earned global acclaim, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifting his works to former US President Obama and Queen Margrethe II of Denmark.

Awarded the National Award for Handicrafts, Gujarat State Award, and the prestigious Padma Shri in 2023, Abdul Gafur remains committed to mentoring the next generation. Abdul Gafur’s call to action urges Indians to support and celebrate traditional crafts, ensuring these cultural treasures endure for generations.

Own your piece of heritage with Rogan Art, now available at All Nice Things.

Rogan Heritage Art